20 Signs of Addiction, Part Two

Last week we began working through an article entitled "20 Secret Signs of Addiction: Learn the tell-tale signs that a loved one is addicted to drugs or alcohol" by Melanie Haiken, Caring.com. The whole article can be referenced here: URL: http://health.msn.com/health-topics/articlepage.aspx?cp-documentid=100260596> 1=31036. This is our second group of five.

I know from personal experience that knowing whether someone you love has a problem with alcohol or drugs isn't as straightforward as it sounds. Most people who overuse alcohol and drugs become adept at disguising their behavior. Shame, embarrassment, and fear of consequences will cause someone to go to extreme lengths to hide what they're doing. In many cases, the person who's drinking too much or using drugs doesn't want to recognize or admit that he's not in control of the situation.

Sadly, many times we don't find out until a tragedy, such as a drunk driving accident or an overdose, has occurred. Knowing these 20 secret signs of addiction can help you prevent that from happening.

6. The money magnet: Drugs are expensive, and so is stopping at the bar four times a week. Impaired judgment also leads many people to get in financial hot water simply by not minding their bills. Bills may pile up unopened, or someone might suddenly start selling possessions on eBay when they've never done so before. The manic periods of elation from coke and speed can send people on buying sprees; alcohol can fuel gambling binges. Asking friends for loans or using a family member's credit card without asking are other signs.

7. The clear choice: Vodka is a drink of choice for alcoholics because it's clear and looks just like water when poured in a tumbler. Vodka can also be added to soft drinks and juice without changing the color or giving off a noticeable smell. If someone you love switches from a previous drink of choice to vodka, it's cause for alarm. Sip from their cup of coffee or coke to see if it's spiked. Pay attention to grocery receipts, too-is vodka on the list?

8. Missing in action: From missed birthday parties to high school graduations, these are the kinds of things people remember when they look back and wonder why they didn't recognize a family member's addiction sooner. Becoming unreliable and secretive is a trademark of the alcoholic or addict. They start to forget appointments, miss important events, arrive late to work or school, etc. If every time you turn around, your loved one seems to be somewhere else, trust your instincts and start checking up.

9. A narrower world: As addiction takes hold, it tends to block out other interests and activities that used to be important sources of pleasure and fulfillment. Loss of interest in friends, sports, social activities, and anything else that used to define someone can be a clue that something's not right. Another sign of isolation is changing their daily routine without a good reason; they may be redirecting their steps as they try to avoid friends, coworkers, and family.


10. Magic bottles: For those of you who insist on drinking, look for a "magic bottle"-the bottle in your cabinet that never seems to get empty. If the liquid levels in liquor bottles seem to rise and fall mysteriously, your only recourse is to taste. Watered-down liquor is a sure sign that the person you're worried about wishes to hide his liquor intake from you. Also, check the recycle bin. "Many people with alcohol abuse and alcoholism hide beer cans, wine bottles, etc., at the bottom of their recycling bins so their neighbors don't get suspicious about their problem," says Neil Capretto of Pittsburgh's Gateway Rehabilitation Center.

~Shawn